Most LLMs are also offered on a part-time (two years) basis: these are popular with UK and EU graduates who can work their way through law school. Not all part-time courses are suitable for international students, who are subject to restrictions on their working rights, including the number of hours they can work in term time.
There is no UK government league table of universities. The rankings and websites listed below offer some useful guidance, although such information dates very quickly. It is important to read course descriptions and to seek other relevant information, such as the views of visiting teachers.
Location, Location, Location
For exposure to legal institutions and corporate law firms, London has no rival. Conversely, it is a very expensive place to live! One point in its favour is the variety of LLMs and subject choices offered by the colleges that collectively make up the University of London, including University College London (UCL), King’s College London, Queen Mary’s and SOAS.
Another feature unique to England’s capital is the Inns of Court, home to London’s barristers (litigators) for many centuries. The Inns of Court School of Law (which changed its name in July 2008 to the City Law School) linked up with City University London to provide the UK’s first LLM in Criminal Litigation. However, other cities offer an excellent legal education, and London is never more than a few hours’ travel from anywhere in the UK.
Applying for Your English LLM Apply directly, often online, to
individual universities. There is no limit on how many can be applied to. Application forms usually require a lengthy personal statement persuading the admissions tutor that you have the right enthusiasm and expertise. You may have to submit examples of academic work or write an essay on a set topic. A few institutions will interview you by phone.
Entry Requirements for Your English LLM
These vary between universities and programmes, but usually ask for a law degree at the equivalent of a 2.1 grade, ie the top half of the second class. Some courses may accept lower academic grades, particularly with appropriate work experience. Others may consider non-law graduates whose studies are relevant to a particular course, eg one with a scientific, business or sociological slant.
Opening Doors
Studying for an LLM in the UK provides an opportunity to look at the theory and development of law in a multinational environment. An LLM adds weight to academic credentials, particularly if going on to teach or research. Legal employers everywhere see it as adding value to any application, but, in the UK, it is most acceptable alongside practical training if you intend to become a solicitor or barrister. Statistics show that many European Union (EU) and international students return home on completion of their LLM, and are successful in finding legal employment or related work.
Working in the UK
The situation differs according to your nationality and whether you are already a qualified lawyer. The
Law Society and the Bar Council can offer guidance on equivalency.
EU-qualified lawyers with good English are in the best position. Large UK law firms report that it is hard to obtain work permits for non-EU candidates unless they have practised law for a substantial amount of time in their home jurisdictions. An LLM, especially combined with a recognised UK qualification such as the Legal Practice Course, might boost your application in these circumstances. The trend at the moment is for large law practices to actively recruit LLM associates based in their own countries, but with the chance to spend time in the UK and elsewhere.
It’s Worth It!
An LLM is a worthwhile addition to practical training and shows that you have high motivation and intellectual ability. It gives you extra credibility that might improve your career prospects in the short term and the medium term. Where better to study it than in the UK?
Find out more about studying for an LLM at:
www.llmstudy.com
Need Funding?
Postgrad Solutions Ltd is offering two LLM Study Bursaries each to the value of £500.
Apply Here Now
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